CECILIA – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cecilia for Clanice Joseph “CJ” Schexnyder, 97, who passed away on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, at his home.

A visitation will take place at the funeral home in Cecilia on Wednesday from 2:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will continue on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

A Rosary will be prayed at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Father Greg Cormier will officiate at the Funeral Mass. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Lafayette.

CJ’s remarkable journey through life showcased not only his unwavering spirit but also an unwavering commitment to his family and community. As a proud WWII veteran, CJ served his country with valor, embodying the very essence of dedication and sacrifice.

His military service is a testament to a period when bravery was defined differently, and he carried those lessons throughout his life. A humble man, CJ often credited his experiences during the war as a foundation upon which he built his values-a commitment to serve others became a guiding light.

CJ then turned his focus to education, where over the span of eight years, he inspired countless young minds. He firmly believed in the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities. His nurturing approach to teaching allowed him to touch the hearts of his students, leaving a lasting impression that many would carry with them long after leaving his classroom.

He then began his career in the Oil and Gas industry for 33 years as a Material Coordinator for 33 years before his retirement.

Beyond his professional achievements, CJ’s hobbies as a hunter and fisherman brought him immense joy. He cherished those quiet moments spent outdoors, finding tranquility in nature and sharing those adventures with family and friends. CJ was not just a great papa and pop; he was a beloved figure who filled hearts with warmth and laughter, creating memories that will forever live on in the stories told by those closest to him.

He played an integral role in the establishment of the pro-life movement in the Diocese of Lafayette, tirelessly advocating for those who could not advocate for themselves. His devotion to this cause reflected his deep sense of morality and compassion, as he sought to bring dignity and support to vulnerable lives.

“Fair winds and following seas to CJ.”

He is survived by his wife of 76 years, Della Schexnyder; daughters, Patricia Ann Osborn and Cathy Brumwell (Matt); sons, Jude Schexnyder (Diane) and Joseph Chad Schexnyder; sisters, Lorin Leather and Betty Daigle; grandchildren, Tricia Chaisson, Kasie Willis, Chris Cole, Sara Kathryn Fly, Matthew Fontenot, Ben Schexnyder, Collin Schexnyder and Ethan Schexnyder; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clovis and Evelyn Campbell Schexnyder; great-grandchildren, Adiana and Austin Chaisson; and his brothers, Fernest Schexnyder, Warrman Schexnyder, Raywood Schexnyder and Walter Schexnyder.

Pallbearers will be Jude Schexnyder, Chad Schexnyder, Matt Brumwell, Matthew Fontenot, Chris Cole, and Ethan Schexnyder.

Pellerin Funeral Home of Cecilia (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.